Service Dogs Reunite With the Puppy Raisers Who Built Their Bright Futures
Before 75 Canine Companions service dogs graduated, they were surprised with the foster families who loved them first.
Graduation day is the culmination of months of dedication for service dogs in training. After six to nine months of intensive work learning how to assist future partners, these devoted pups are finally ready to begin their official careers. But before sending their latest class off to their forever placements, nonprofit organization Canine Companions arranged a deeply moving surprise: emotional reunions with the volunteer puppy raisers who loved and nurtured them from the start.
From the time they are just 8 weeks old until about a year and a half, these future service dogs live in foster homes to master socialization and essential obedience. By the time graduation day arrives, the dogs haven't seen their foster parents in months. When graduates like Peanut, Nugget, Maddox, and Reid finally caught sight of their original handlers across the courtyard, professional composure melted into pure excitement.
